Multicultural Arts Victoria (MAV) is pleased to announce that it is the proud recipient of a grant from the Helen Macpherson Smith Trust for its Emerge Cultural Enterprise & Development Program – “Go for Broke” for 2017 and 2018.

A proposal was considered by the Trustees at their meeting in October and subsequently, MAV was advised that a grant of $200,000 (over two years) has been made available towards this project.

MAV’s Artists Services program provides work opportunities to hundreds of local artists from diverse cultural backgrounds to a broad range of clients across public and private sector.  This investment will allow MAV to be more proactive in seeking markets for artists, being more effective in responding to clients and more strategic in tailoring and promoting product to new markets.

“MAV is very excited by this news and grateful for the generosity of the Trustees.” said George Lekakis AO, Chair of Multicultural Arts Victoria.  “This grant will allow us to raise the profile of the State’s diverse cultures and build the economic capacity of our artists and communities across the State”.

“Multicultural Arts Victoria continues to emphasise the role the arts play as key tool for social change and economic empowerment.” said Lin Bender, CEO of the Helen Macpherson Smith Trust “MAV offers valuable opportunities and collaborative structures for artists and communities to create and present new cultural material and build careers. This investment will build a stronger base for the organisation to continue this important work.”

‘Go for Broke’ aligns with several the objectives of the Trust’s Grants program.  The program takes a partnership approach to develop the skills and capacity of individuals, groups and communities across metropolitan and regional areas with lasting cultural benefits for Victorians.

MAV’s CEO, Jill Morgan AM said: “Our model is one of creating cultural opportunities that lead to systemic change and social inclusion. This boost will see a considerable strengthening of this area of our activity and most importantly, expose many new audiences to the incredible cultural richness of Victoria. Thank you Trustees.”

Each year, Multicultural Arts Victoria provides work opportunities to hundreds of brilliant local artists from diverse cultural backgrounds to a broad range of clients across all industries.

For further information please contact Andy Miller, General Manager 03 9188 3681 or emal: andy.miller@multiculturalarts.com.au